Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Indianapolis, IN & Owings Mills, MD
Choosing between Marian University and Stevenson University means comparing two similarly sized private nonprofit institutions, both centered on health programs, but operating in very different regional markets and financial contexts. Marian, based in Indianapolis, costs modestly less per year and produces graduates who, on average, earn significantly beyond what their demographic backgrounds would predict.
Stevenson, located in Owings Mills near Baltimore, carries a substantially higher debt burden and a payment structure that will strain many graduates' budgets. The core question is which school delivers better financial outcomes relative to its cost — and the data reveals a clear lean.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$27,000
federal loans
$26,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$24,800
borrowed by parents
$52,117
borrowed by parents
Both Marian University and Stevenson University emphasize health fields as their dominant program area. Marian's largest program is Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing, producing 334 graduates annually, followed by Business Administration and Management (40 graduates) and Teacher Education (35 graduates).
Marian's broader mix includes 14% Business and 6% Education. Stevenson similarly leads with Registered Nursing (187 graduates), complemented by Business Administration (74 graduates), Biology (52 graduates), Psychology (49 graduates), and Criminal Justice (42 graduates), with a program mix of 19% Business and 6% Arts.
Both schools feed graduates into nursing and health careers, though Stevenson's greater business concentration shapes a somewhat different graduate profile.
For most students prioritizing a balance of outcomes, debt burden, and institutional effectiveness, Marian University delivers the stronger financial value. Its graduates carry $26,317 less in total debt than Stevenson graduates on average, face lower monthly payments, and exceed earnings expectations by a far wider margin — all while graduating at nearly the same rate.
Stevenson University makes a compelling case for low-income students, who pay $7,301 less per year there, and for those drawn to the Baltimore-Maryland job market with its specific employer networks. The right choice depends on your income level, preferred region, program interests, and how much debt your family can manage.
But for the typical student weighing financial outcomes, the data favors Marian University as the more financially sound path.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
